Opinion | A Sharp Tongue, A Sharper Threat: The Dangers Of Unchecked Rhetoric
In a democracy, the press serves as the watchdog that holds power to account. When a CM threatens to “strip and thrash” those who criticise him, he not only undermines the freedom of the press but also erodes the very foundations of democratic governance
In the volatile canvas of Indian politics, where power often dances with rhetoric, the recent controversy surrounding Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy’s statement earlier this month—“will strip, thrash you"—has ignited a firestorm of debate. The remark, made in the context of the arrest of two women journalists, is not merely a fleeting moment of political indiscretion; it is a mirror reflecting deeper fissures in the democratic ethos of our times.
Revanth Reddy, a leader known for his impassioned oratory and unyielding demeanour, has often been a polarising figure in Telangana’s political landscape. His rise to the chief minister’s office in December 2023 was seen by many as a testament to his grassroots connect and relentless ambition. Yet, the same qualities that endeared him to his supporters have now become a source of contention.
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His recent comment, made during a public address—which his supporters say was taken out of context—was ostensibly a response to allegations of corruption and mismanagement against his government. “If anyone tries to tarnish the image of my government with baseless allegations," he declared, “I will strip them and thrash them in public." This kind of language, completely stripped of any kind of democratic restraint, has since rightfully created a great deal of criticism.
Language, in the hands of a politician, is a double-edged sword. It can inspire, unite, and uplift, but it can also alienate, intimidate, and divide. Revanth Reddy’s choice of words—raw, unfiltered, and laced with menace—reveals a troubling disregard for the sanctity of dissent. In a democracy, the press serves as the fourth pillar, a watchdog that holds power to account. When a chief minister threatens to “strip and thrash" those who criticise him, he not only undermines the freedom of the press but also erodes the very foundations of democratic governance.
The journalists, whose reporting allegedly exposed irregularities in the government, were detained under charges that many have deemed frivolous and politically motivated. This incident is not an isolated one; it is part of a broader pattern where journalists across India face increasing pressure, intimidation, and even violence for doing their job. According to the 2023 Press Freedom Index by Reporters Without Borders, India ranks a dismal 161 out of 180 countries, a stark reminder of the challenges faced by the media in the world’s largest democracy.
Yet, it would be simplistic to view this episode solely through the prism of power and its abuse. It is also a reflection of the changing nature of political discourse in India. In an era dominated by social media and 24/7 news cycles, politicians are under constant scrutiny, often also through irresponsible and motivated reporting. The pressure to respond swiftly and decisively often leads to lapses in judgment.
What has come to the fore—unfortunately once again—is the core issue of press freedom. Media organisations have condemned the arrest, calling it an attempt to silence critical voices. The Editors Guild of India issued a statement expressing concern over the “growing intolerance towards dissent" in Telangana. They urged the state government to uphold the freedom of the press and ensure that journalists can perform their duties without fear of retribution.
In the aftermath of the controversy, the Opposition parties in Telangana have been quick to seize the moment. The Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS), which was previously in power, has accused Reddy of adopting a dictatorial style of governance. BRS leader K.T. Rama Rao tweeted, “The Chief Minister’s statement is a reflection of his intolerance towards criticism. This is not the Telangana we fought for." Such criticisms, while politically motivated, underscore the need for accountability in a democracy.
Civil society groups and activists have also played a crucial role in amplifying the voices of dissent. Protests have been organised in Hyderabad and other parts of the state, condemning the arrest of the journalist and an apology from the chief minister. Social media has been abuzz with hashtags like #SavePressFreedom and #RevanthReddyResign, reflecting the public’s discontent. These efforts, though fragmented, are a testament to the resilience of democratic values in the face of adversity.
The controversy is a wake-up call for Telangana, and for India as a whole. It is a reminder that democracy is not a static achievement but a continuous process that requires vigilance, participation, and accountability. The state government must take immediate steps to address the concerns raised by media organisations, Opposition parties, and civil society. This includes conducting a transparent investigation into the allegations of corruption, and reaffirming its commitment to press freedom.
Moreover, Revanth Reddy—and all political leaders—must recognise the weight of their words and the impact they have on public perception. A public apology, coupled with a pledge to uphold democratic values by Reddy, would go a long way in restoring faith in his leadership. As philosopher Voltaire once said: “I may not agree with what you say, but I will defend to the death your right to say it". This spirit of tolerance and respect for dissent is what defines a true democracy.
The author is a former diplomat, an author and a politician. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect News18’s views.
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